Tanaiste Leo Varadkar hopes nightclubs may reopen in August or September but it is "impossible to say".
In an Instagram live video updating people on the Government’s Economic Recovery Plan, the Tanaiste said clubs might be allowed to reopen in just a few months.
Speaking to his 198k followers, Mr Varadkar said: "Don't know when the clubs are going to reopen, unfortunately, who knows, hopefully, August, September.
“It’s impossible to say at this stage, but I think some outdoor events are going to happen first and hopefully, with a decent summer that's going to be, that’s going to be possible.”
This comes as a sliver lining of hope for nightclub owners who have had their doors shut for over a year.
Last week Taoiseach Micheal Martin confirmed that outdoor dining in pubs and restaurants will reopen on June 7.
There must be a minimum of 1m distance between tables, and there will be no mandatory time limit.
A maximum of six people aged over 13 will be allowed to sit at a table. Accompanying children will not be counted, meaning a maximum of 15 people will be allowed per table.
All patrons will have to be off site at 11.30 pm.
The minimum purchase rule of a €9 substantial meal will no longer be in place.
